Heavy rains bring rising water levels on St. Croix river

STILLWATER, Minn. (KMSP) - Crowds of people flocked to Stillwater on a gorgeous fall day to take pictures of high water levels on the St. Croix river Sunday afternoon.

Heavy October rains contributed to the river's rising tide, nearly submerging sidewalk benches and waterfront areas as police ordered a no-wake zone on a 52-mile long stretch of river until water levels subside.

"You used to be able to go down and walk along the sidewalk and just enjoy the scenery," said John Baker, who came to see the river Sunday. "But the water is a little too high, so it’s backing everyone up a little farther than usual.”

The river is expected to crest on Tuesday, though authorities worry about what would happen if Minnesota continues to get more rain than normal.